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wellbeing · 06-01-2008, 12:18 AM

I agree with Rose: start out small, like 5 minutes (it'll feel plenty long the first few times), and add a minute or 2, as you progress.

A couple of other tips:

Use a timer or set an alarm. Keeping an eye on the clock is just a form of distraction.
Try to meditate at the same time every day. It'll help to train your mind to go into meditation mode. Also, meditate in the same place, position, etc. to reinforce that training. Another advantage of sticking to a schedule is that you're building a habit into your daily routine which will help you keep up with practice.
Be gentle with yourself. Your mind will wander; just bring it back to your breathing without any fuss or judgements. Don't worry if you're doing it right or well or whatever; those are judgements as well and just distractions.

Some people use fancy techniques, sounds, incenses, etc. but you don't need anything more than your time, some quiet and your attention. The most important part is to simply do it.

Hope this helps.

06-01-2008, 12:18 AM	#4 (permalink)
wellbeing Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2007 Posts: 172	I agree with Rose: start out small, like 5 minutes (it'll feel plenty long the first few times), and add a minute or 2, as you progress. A couple of other tips: Use a timer or set an alarm. Keeping an eye on the clock is just a form of distraction. Try to meditate at the same time every day. It'll help to train your mind to go into meditation mode. Also, meditate in the same place, position, etc. to reinforce that training. Another advantage of sticking to a schedule is that you're building a habit into your daily routine which will help you keep up with practice. Be gentle with yourself. Your mind will wander; just bring it back to your breathing without any fuss or judgements. Don't worry if you're doing it right or well or whatever; those are judgements as well and just distractions. Some people use fancy techniques, sounds, incenses, etc. but you don't need anything more than your time, some quiet and your attention. The most important part is to simply do it. Hope this helps.